Singapore Ballet at Bugis+ serves as the nation's premier ballet company and dance education center, bringing world-class dance performances and professional training to the heart of Singapore's vibrant arts scene. Operating since 1987, Singapore Ballet has established itself as a cornerstone of Singapore's cultural landscape while maintaining international recognition in the global ballet community. Located within Bugis+'s dynamic retail and cultural environment, the facility serves as both a training ground for aspiring dancers and an accessible entry point for adults seeking dance education regardless of their prior experience. The organization's dual role as professional company and educational institution reflects its commitment to nurturing Singapore's dance culture while making ballet education accessible to the broader community.
The comprehensive Adult Dance Classes (ADC) program welcomes participants of all ages and abilities, offering structured progression through Beginners 1-3, Level 1-2, and Contemporary classes that accommodate various skill levels and interests. Students learn from Singapore Ballet's professional artists, both former and current company members, ensuring exposure to the highest standards of ballet technique and artistry. The facility features state-of-the-arts studios where professional company members rehearse for annual performance seasons, providing students with authentic professional environments that enhance their learning experience. The Singapore Ballet Scholars Programme offers specialized pre-professional training for passionate young dancers aged 13-19, providing rigorous instruction in ballet technique, pointe work, variations, contemporary dance, and educational seminars under the guidance of Artistic Director Janek Schergen and distinguished faculty members.
Located at 201 Victoria Street, Bugis+, #07-02/03, Singapore 188067, Singapore Ballet provides convenient access via Bugis Station (EW & DT Line), ensuring excellent connectivity for students and patrons from across Singapore. The seventh-floor location within Bugis+ creates a dedicated arts environment that's separate from commercial retail activities while remaining easily accessible. The organization's commitment to making ballet education accessible is evident in their competitive pricing and flexible class card options that accommodate various budgets and schedules. The central Bugis location places the facility within walking distance of numerous cultural attractions, restaurants, and transportation hubs, making ballet classes and performances part of broader cultural experiences in Singapore's arts district.
I was initially excited to try adult ballet as a hobby, and I had no prior knowledge of ballet. However, after the first class, I felt disappointed and discouraged because of the instructor. I remember he asked if I was an accountant, to which I replied no, and he then said, "obviously because you don't know how to count." He also asked, "are you trying to get my attention?" when I made another mistake. All of this happened on the very first day.
I still attended another class since I had signed up for an 8-class term. However, I didn't feel it was a safe space for me to learn and didn't want to feel forced to attend a class I didn't like, so I decided to miss the remaining classes.
Summerlina
The adult class had one instructor. It was my first time at SDT, and it took a long time to secure a spot. Honestly, I was slightly disappointed as the class felt quite cold and impersonal. Maybe it depends on which teacher you get? But, the fundamentals were taught, so if that's all you're looking for, it's fine. The instructor did as she was told, did nothing wrong, and gave answers. But as I said, it was very impersonal. Personally, I would have preferred a more inviting atmosphere, especially as a beginning student.
Tian Ng
It is not possible for complete beginners to acquire skills from open classes without a fixed syllabus and personal feedback. Class size varies depending on the day of class. I wasted two years of my time and money trying to learn from adult classes. I wish there were more honesty and acknowledgment from the dance company that this school is not suited for complete beginners with no ballet background. It would have saved me and some others I know a lot of years.
Eugenia Ho
The beginner's class was a good introduction to ballet. However, beyond that, this studio is not suitable for complete beginners with no dance background. There is limited to no feedback given, due to the large class size. It was difficult to progress further in terms of technique.
If, however, you already have dance instruction elsewhere and want an additional class to learn more combinations, or if you have a ballet background, then this school will be suitable for you. All in all, it was still an experience to be taught by professionals.
See
Class sizes are generally large (around 30–40 participants), which limits opportunities for individual feedback and corrections. Most instructors are either company-affiliated or retired professionals. Of those I’ve encountered, only a few have created a supportive and constructive learning environment. Rosa Park (a temporary substitute) and Ivan (a current substitute) stood out for their attentiveness, offering personalized corrections and adapting exercises when needed. This greatly enhances the learning experience.
As the class rates are significantly lower than those of typical adult studios, the range in student ability and maturity is understandably broader. While this is not an issue in itself, I have occasionally observed younger students, typically teenagers or those in university, offering unsolicited corrections to others (adults) during class, even while the instructor is still present. This reflects a lack of emotional intelligence and classroom awareness, and can come across as presumptuous, especially since they are fellow students, not qualified teachers.
While such behavior is not the fault of SB, it may be beneficial to establish a clear guideline that corrections should only be given by instructors. This would help maintain a respectful and focused environment where all students can feel safe to learn and grow.
Positive Reviews
Christine Tham
Very convenient location and they offer ballet classes catered to all levels. Teachers are very professional and passionate. Sometimes classes can get a bit crowded, but still enjoyable nonetheless. 😀
Mei Fang Huang
I agree with an earlier reviewer that classes can be quite cold (literally, too) and impersonal depending on which instructor you get. However, I wouldn't say that all instructors are impersonal, as it may be that some are more introverted compared to others. I've done a few beginner courses here and must say they are all very professional. Shout-outs especially to Jeremie, who was always so enthusiastic about sharing his craft, and Maddy, who took the time to ask if we had any injuries at the start of class. She was the only instructor I encountered there who did so.
Martin
Fun ballet classes, and free water too!
Jay Tay
Here's the edited review:
"One of the hardest working and most humble dance companies I know. They always give their best in all of their public performances, including commissioned works. My favorite performance of 2022 so far would easily be the recently concluded Masterpiece in Motion. Sitting in the front row, you could literally see every bead of sweat they shed on the stage while still looking perfect. Thank you for the representation and, more importantly, for showing heart in all of your performances. Now if only Esplanade could do something about those chatty and restless kid groups... perhaps take a leaf from Angie’s Oyster and slap a noisy child surcharge on the parents/guardians with poor child control abilities, or perhaps offer a child/family-only matinee followed by an adult-only evening performance."
Meng Yi Chan
Taking adult ballet classes here. Classes are taught by professional dancers. The instruction is great, and the studios are lovely. Classes do get a little too crowded sometimes. They also only accept payment at the counter for class packages; I wish they offered electronic payment and allowed for bookings instead of open classes to avoid overcrowding.
Jess Lim
Love the teachers and setup. It gives adults a chance to start a foundation class, no matter how 'young' one is. Minds are young and open, and the teachers are patient, committed, and dedicated!
Sandy Rebecca
Yay for ballet! Always fantastic adult instruction, lovely studios, and an enjoyable experience. You can learn at your own pace and have the freedom to take classes over months with the dance card, so there’s no stress associated with missing classes when you travel or get busy. Highly recommended for adult ballet!
Lucas Sequeira
Wonderful facilities. Though I couldn’t see a show, the dancers here look lovely. At the top of the shopping mall, the studios are very big and spacious.
Ishak
First time with my daughter for her intensive ballet course. Good experience.
Harper Yee
It's a great place to learn ballet for those who have no ballet background, and the fee is affordable as well. It's also better to wear a leotard and tights for class, especially for ladies who are new, as the ballet instructor will need to see your movements and steps to correct you easily. I have learned ballet before, so I know about it. Just go and try it to see if you like it too.
